Integrating Mitochondrial Network Topology, Dynamics, and Function

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Mitochondria, the energy-generating organelles, form interconnected membrane-bound tubular networks within the cell. These mitochondrial networks undergo both fission and fusion dynamics as a result of which there may be many individual mitochondria or a single large network in the cell. The network dynamics are believed to contribute to maintaining mitochondrial function by segregating out damaged sub-regions of the network for turnover. Innovative image analysis methods will be used to accurately quantify the 3 dimensional topology and dynamics of the entire mitochondrial network of yeast cells. These data will be combined in an iterative process with computational modeling, genetic manipulations, and functional assays to advance fundamental understanding of how mitochondrial network topology, dynamics, and function are integrated by the cell. Broader Impacts: Undergraduate students training to be STEM teachers will be integrated into the project and will learn how to develop and implement research-based lesson plans for K12 students. Opportunities for cross-disciplinary training in computation and biology will be provided by this project at undergraduate, graduate and postdoctoral levels.This award is funded jointly by the Cellular Dynamics and Function Cluster of the Molecular and Cellular Biosciences Division and by the Mathematical Biology Program of the Division of Mathematical Sciences.